In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education financing, HELB (Higher Education Loans Board) remains a cornerstone for thousands of Kenyan students. For JKUAT students, understanding how to access these funds·especially amidst changing policies and tech innovations·is critical. This guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of how to access HELB funds via USSD, other digital platforms, and addresses the most pressing FAQs and emerging stories surrounding HELB in 2025.
Step-by-Step: Accessing HELB Funds via USSD:
The USSD method is ideal for students without smartphones or internet access. It·s fast, secure, and works on any mobile device. · How to Use HELB USSD (*642#):
- Dial *642# on your mobile phone.
- Select ·Login· and enter your ID number or HELB credentials. 3.
- Choose ·Withdraw Funds.·
- Select ·Upkeep· and enter the amount you wish to withdraw.
Funds are sent directly to your M-PESA account, making this method perfect for quick upkeep access. ·
Other Ways to Access HELB Funds:
1. HELB Mobile App Available on Android and iOS, the app offers:
- - Loan application and tracking
- - Fund withdrawal
- - Document uploads
- - Notifications on disbursement status
2. HELB Online Portal : Visit www.helb.co.ke and log into your student portal to:
- - Apply for loans and scholarships
- - View disbursement history
- - Update personal details
- - Submit appeals or corrections
3. Bank Integration.
Banks like Equity, Cooperative, and KCB offer HELB-linked accounts. These allow:
- - Direct disbursement to your bank account- SMS alerts on transactions
- - Easy access to statements and balances
· Trending HELB Updates & FAQs (2025)
· New Funding Model: Student-Centered Funding (SCFM)
HELB now uses a Means Testing Instrument (MTI) to assess financial need. This model combines:- Scholarships- Loans- Household contributions. As of August 2025, over 129,403 university students and 60,976 TVET trainees had applied under SCFM. · Disbursement Timeline- First-year students began receiving HELB funds from August 15, 2025, aligned with university reopening.- Disbursements are done in phases to ensure smooth transitions. ·
Budget Boost To address funding gaps, t
he government increased HELB·s budget from KSh 36B to KSh 41B. Breakdown:
- - KSh 13B for tuition and upkeep
- - KSh 16.9B for scholarships via the Universities Fund ·
· Funding Crisis Despite the boost,
HELB faces a KSh 36.1B deficit, risking support for 468,237 students. This has led to:- Partial funding for some students- Delayed tuition remittances to universities- Increased pressure on institutions · Loan Repayment & Defaulters HELB is cracking down on defaulters·especially those flaunting wealth while ignoring repayments. Plans include:- Accessing KRA and NTSA data to trace defaulters- Targeting individuals with cars and businesses who haven·t repaid loans- Exploring income-contingent repayment models and weekly payment options for informal sector workers ·
· Student Leadership Perspective:
JKUSA Secretary General, Lennox Peter shared his thoughts on the current funding landscape: "Access to HELB is not just about tuition·it·s about dignity, stability, and academic success. We urge all students to apply early and use the available platforms. JKUSA continues to advocate for transparency and timely disbursement to ensure no student is left behind." , he said as he welcomed over 6000 new students.
· HELB Contact Information
- - Website: www.helb.co.ke
- - USSD Code: *642#
- - Phone: +254 711 052000
- - Email: contactcentre@helb.co.ke
- - Social Media: @HELBPAGE
- - Location: Anniversary Towers, University Way, Nairobi ·
Final Thoughts Whether you're a first-year student or continuing your academic journey, understanding how to access HELB funds is essential. With multiple platforms available and ongoing reforms, staying informed ensures you make the most of your financial support. Apply early. Stay updated. Advocate for your rights
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